FAQs

There can be so many questions around adoption. Here are some of the most common questions we receive. If you’re looking for any other adoption information that is not covered on this page, contact us on 020 7354 4161 to speak to a member of our team.

How much will the adoption assessment cost?
We do not charge a fee for any part of the adoption assessment, matching or placing process. The only cost that you will incur, which is typical of most adoption agencies, is the cost of an Adult Health Medical Assessment. These need to be carried out by your GP and the cost can vary, however, in our experience this is usually within the region of £80.

How long does the adoption process take?
The assessment process usually takes around six months. The assessment is split into two stages. Stage one of the assessment takes two months and stage two usually around four months. Find out more information on our process.

After the prospective adopter has been approved it can be harder to say how long it might take to find the right child, but our average time scale is six months from being approved to having a child placed with the family.

Am I too old to adopt?
Adopters need to be at least 21 years old but there is no upper age limit on who can adopt. As long as you’re fit and healthy enough to provide long-term care for a child, there would be no reason for concern or for you to be turned away.

Will I be able to adopt, even if I’m single?
Whether you’re single or a couple, whatever gender or sexual orientation, as long as you can provide a stable, loving home and are fit and healthy to provide long-term care, there would be no concern and reason for you to be turned away.

I already have children, will I be able to adopt?
Yes you can, and you can adopt more than one child at once.

I live in rented accommodation, does this mean I won’t be able to adopt?
To become an adopter in England, you do not need to be a home-owner. However we do require that you have space for the child/ren to have their own bedroom.

Do you need to have British residency?
You need to have been living in the British Isles for at least one year to be able to apply for an adoption order.

Does Family Futures offer inter-country adoption?
Family Futures does not offer inter-country adoption. We focus on recruiting prospective adopters who are interested in adopting children aged three-to-five years old living in the UK. We receive referrals for children from all over the UK.

If you are interested in inter-country adoption you may find the following websites helpful: